Why Does My Safety Switch Keep Tripping?

First, what a safety switch does

A safety switch (RCD) watches the electricity going out and coming back on a circuit. If some of it leaks away, for example through a faulty appliance, water or a person, it cuts the power in a fraction of a second. So when it trips, there’s usually a real fault somewhere.

The most common causes

• A faulty appliance. Kettles, toasters, heaters, fridges and washing machines are frequent culprits.
• Water or moisture. Outdoor power points, garden lights and isolators let in rain.
• Damaged wiring. Cables damaged by rodents, renovations or age.
• Too many appliances on one safety switch. Small leakage from lots of appliances can add up.
• An old or faulty safety switch. These wear out too.

A safe way to find the problem

Only do this if there’s no burning smell, smoke, heat or water near the switchboard.

1. Unplug everythingSwitch off and unplug all appliances on the affected area.
2. Reset the switchPush the safety switch back to ON. If it trips with nothing plugged in, the fault is in the wiring. Call an electrician.
3. Plug in one at a timeTurn appliances back on one by one. If it trips when one goes on, you’ve likely found the faulty appliance.

What not to do

• Don’t keep resetting a switch that trips straight away
• Never bypass or tape a safety switch on
• Don’t touch wet fittings or switchboards
• Don’t open the switchboard or try electrical repairs yourself. It’s illegal and dangerous in Victoria

When to call an electrician

Call a licensed electrician if the switch trips with everything unplugged, if you can’t find the cause, if it happens in wet weather, or if you notice any burning smell, buzzing or scorch marks. For burning smells or smoke, turn off the main switch if it’s safe and call straight away.

Need help?

RNP Electrical is a licensed local electrician (REC 34060) based in Altona North, covering all of Melbourne’s west. See our Fault Finding & Maintenance service, or call Rami on 0402 132 759 for a fixed-price quote.